Salewa Firetail EVO Mid GTX Hiking Boot
A versatile hiker that's light like a trail runner but stiff enough for bigger hikes.
Brand: Firetail EVO Mid GTX
Model: Salewa
“An approach shoe, a midcut trail runner, and a fastpacking boot all in one package—what’s not to love?” asked one tester. We were nuts about the low-cut version of this shoe, and this midcut design is even more versatile. “I prefer trail runners in the backcountry—they’re comfortable, grippy, breathable—but if I’m schlepping 35 pounds, I’ll bang up my ankles in low-cuts,” says one tester. “The Firetails performed well in Colorado mud, on Utah slickrock, and even on icy paths in the Rockies.” Ripstop nylon uppers, a Kevlar rand, and a rubber toe bumper enhance protection, while an EVA midsole supported packs stuffed with overnight and climbing gear. “They’re stiffer than a typical approach shoe or runner, so I could even wear them on some low-fifth-class climbs,” an editor says. $189; 2 lbs.; salewa.us